Holyoke Local Cultural Council Meeting April 1 2024

Holyoke Local Cultural Council
April 1, 2024
Chair, Anne Thalheimer, called the meeting to order at 6:35. Present were members Chris Fournier, Anne Thalheimer, Mark Dunlap, Gloria Caballero and Tim Damon and guest Charlie Laboy, chair of the Chicopee Cultural Council. Absent were Navae Rodriquez and Chris Dunay.

Grantee Communications- Anne has received several questions about the process and completing paperwork to receive funds. The play, “Yours, Isabella” will take place this weekend at Wistariahurst.
Treasurer’s Report- For 2024 of the $101,905 allocated this cycle, $7,737.62 has been reimbursed and $94,167.38 is as yet unclaimed. Many of the projects will take place in the next few months. For 2023 of the $87,578 allocated, $70,510.28 has been reimbursed and $17, 067.72 is as yet unclaimed. Of the unclaimed funds $4,300 is from projects given an extension until May 31st.
General announcements- The Care Center has hosted a series of drumming classes presented by the Tamarack Cultural Center which generated great enthusiasm from their students. A Silent Film with improvised organ accompaniment by Peter Krasinski will be held at the United Congregational Church of Holyoke on Saturday, April 27, at 7:30. This year’s film is “The Thief of Baghdad.” Mark shared that the Whiskey Wednesdays jazz series at Fame is going strong. The next jazz evening will be Thursday, April 17, 7:00-9:30. Mark your calendars for the Holyoke Pride celebration on June 22! The Cultural Council will be tabling at the event.

New business- The Grants Reception will be held on May 9 at El Mercado from 5:30-7:30. We can set up at 4:30. Menu options from Fame (Mark), Crave (Chris F), and Taino (Tim) were reviewed and a variety of items chosen. We can easily cover this expense within our budget. Invoices must be submitted to holyokeculture@gmail.com for reimbursement. We can purchase drinks and maybe a fruit platter as well. Tim will check on the availability of steam tables, sterno, from UCCH. Details will be finalized at our May meeting.

Community Surveys-What questions do we want to ask this year? Last year’s survey was reviewed and revised. Mark moved to accept last year’s questions with one revision. Gloria seconded. These will be available to distribute at the grants reception.

Charlie Laboy shared his perspective as chair of the Chicopee Cultural Council, discussing the challenges of increasing and retaining members. He spoke about a new focus on inspiring youth membership through the local high schools. Their active membership is around seven currently. Everyone was open to future dialog and collaboration.

The meeting ended at 8:15 per a unanimous vote.